Here’s what you need to know about four main paint finishes, there are 4 basic sheens: flat, eggshell, semi-gloss, and gloss. Below is a list of the best bets for where to use them in your home. But please remember: There are no set rules for how certain paint colors look in each finish; that decision is totally up to you!

Flat: also may be referred to as “matte”. This sheen has the least amount of shine. It is also the least resistant to stains and harder to clean. It does cover cracks and imperfections well and is a good option for textured walls. Plan to use this finish in lower traffic areas like a formal dining room and it is perfect on ceilings.

Eggshell: also may be referred to as “satin”. You really can not go wrong with an eggshell paint. It resists stains better than a flat paint, wipes clean easily, it also has a little more luster and shine than a flat paint. We use this in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, living areas….everywhere!

Semi-Gloss: this is a tough paint and will show less wear than flat or eggshell. It reflects more and will show imperfections in the wall more than the aforementioned finishes. We use this solely on trim work, mouldings and doors.

Eggshell blue paint in desk area

Gloss: shiny and a good choice only on trim and furniture. If you are going for a “glam” look, you can try this on the walls. We have not done that yet, so if you do, please send us pictures!

Microwave interior: place 5-7 wet paper towels in the microwave. Run the appliance on high for 3-5 minutes. The steam from the paper towels will soften grim. Once the towels cool, wipe down the interior!

Garbage Disposal: to disinfect and give your garbage disposal a deep clean, grid a dozen ice cubes made of equal parts water and vinegar.

Stone Countertop Stains: to remove most coffee or juice stains use a little hydrogen peroxide in water, plus a few drops of ammonia.

Tile Backsplash: to get a like new feel for your backsplash tiles, mix half a cup of baking soda into two gallons of water. Then scrub with a sponge.

Wood Floors: in a bucket, mix nine parts warm water with 1 part white vinegar and mop to make the floor shine like new.

Oven Glass: please refer to: the ask anna blog for this one! It is a great tip!

Dish Towels: to get rid of a mildew smell wash them, in the washer, with hot water and some white vinegar…only. Then dryer sheet dry them.

Stove Burners: Take about 1/4 cup of ammonia and seal it up with one of the burners in a large ziploc bag. You only need a little ammonia in the bag. You are not trying to soak the burner… you just want to seal it up with the ammonia fumes. Let it sit over night (outside) on a cookie sheet. The next day, wipe them down with a sponge.

Stainless Steel Sink: sprinkle baking soda in the sink and with a warm wet sponge “buff” in a circular motion the sink. Rinse.

Stainless Steel Appliances: warm water on a sponge and cream of tartar. Wipe with a white towel after.